Refreshing Summer Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Honey Dressing

Welcome to our July edition of healthy and delicious recipes! This month, we’re bringing you a refreshing Summer Quinoa Salad that bursts with flavors and nutrients, perfect for the warm weather. Packed with vibrant vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and a zesty lemon-honey dressing, this salad is a delightful way to stay nourished and cool during the summer days.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa (cooked according to package instructions)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional for added creaminess)
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds (for a delightful crunch)

For the Lemon-Honey Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 large lemon (approximately 2-3 tablespoons)
• 1 tablespoon raw honey (adjust to taste)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

– In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and mint

– If using feta cheese, gently fold it into the salad for added creaminess

– In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, raw honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness according to your preference

– Drizzle the lemon-honey dressing over the quinoa salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients with the flavorful dressing

– For an extra crunch and nutty flavor, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top of the salad just before serving

– Serve the Summer Quinoa Salad chilled and enjoy the burst of flavors and nutrients with every bite

Nutritional Benefits:

This Summer Quinoa Salad is not only delectable but also packed with health benefits:

• Quinoa is a complete protein, providing all essential amino acids, making it an excellent plant-based protein source.
• The variety of colorful vegetables ensures a rich array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Lemon is a great source of vitamin C, promoting a healthy immune system and aiding in digestion.
• Raw honey adds natural sweetness and is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Olive oil offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Fresh herbs like parsley and mint contribute to the salad’s refreshing taste while providing additional nutrients.

Add some zing to your summer with this revitalizing Summer Quinoa Salad. Packed with wholesome ingredients and a tangy lemon-honey dressing, this salad is a perfect combination of health and taste. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch, a side dish, or a potluck contribution, this recipe will surely be a hit! Stay tuned for more delicious and nutritious recipes in the coming months, and until then, enjoy this delightful dish under the warm sun!